Darden to buy Yard House chain

Darden Restaurants will pay $585 million in cash to acquire the 39-unit Yard House USA chain, and operate the acquisition through its Specialty Restaurant Group along with higher-end concepts including Capital Grille and Seasons 52. Yard House, which opened its first location on the water in Long Beach, Calif., in 1996, boasts an extensive beer selection and American-inspired menu that appeals to younger, more affluent guests.